From Your Councilor: Ann Canedy, Precinct 1

As the year rounders wave smiling from the overpass at Route 149 at the departing summer folks, we Barnstable denizens do not retreat into hibernation.

Ann Canedy

As the year rounders wave smiling from the overpass at Route 149 at the departing summer folks, we Barnstable denizens do not retreat into hibernation. On the contrary, many of us emerge from our own busy, sometimes introverted summers to savor the beauty of a Cape Cod autumn and create our own hustle and bustle. This is the time when we reacquaint ourselves with the other villages, venture back into a quieter Hyannis, return to our old haunts and explore the empty beaches of the outer Cape. We know a long winter is ahead of us and we are storing up the good times, pleasant weather, long beach walks and fewer crowds until the bridge backs up with summer visitors once again.

Barnstable Village’s “renaissance” was in full display this summer. The streets, inns, restaurants, markets and shops were crowded with visitors from all over the world. Beautiful gardens, music, new shops, a farmer’s market greeted residents and visitors alike. We shared a slice of Americana with our “best Parade ever” Fourth of July, concerts on the Courthouse lawn, trips on the Whalewatch and Ecotour, lectures at Tales of Cape Cod and Sturgis Library, and special events.

Labor Day, however, heralds a time when Barnstable Village begins to belong once again to us – just us. Activities don’t stop – they just change and we begin to reconnect with old friends and neighbors. To those who ask: What do you do when the tourists leave? The answer is…”Plenty!”

Some events coming up you don’t want to miss:

September 11 Ceremony: In memory of the devastating events of Sept. 11, 2001, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church together with the Barnstable fire and police departments will hold its annual joint remembrance ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. on Sept. 11 at the fire station at 3249 Route 6A. A procession led by the Otis Base Air National Honor Guard will commence at 4:15 and will end at St. Mary’s. A service will be held at 4:30, featuring speakers AA flight attendant Donna Bartlett of Centerville and AA Flight attendant Jana Stein of Sandwich. A reception in St. Mary’s gardens will follow.

Cape Cod Wildlife Collaborative Festival: This free family event takes place at Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary on Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 pm. It is an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the Sanctuary as well as learning about the many environmental organizations across the Cape that ensure that the Cape remains a special place. There will be food, music, book signings by local authors, conversations with top Cape wildlife photographers, a chance to meet and greet the resident farm animals and to witness a live Ravens to Raptures presentation (at 1 p.m.).

Autumnfest: The Sturgis Library and Barnstable Historical Society will hold their annual Autumnfest on Sept. 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. on the grounds of the Historical Society, 3087 Main St. (6A). Tickets ($60 in advance; $70 at the door) are on sale at the Sturgis Library. The event will feature a silent auction, music, elegant food by Cape Cod Chef on Call, a selection of wines donated by Blanchard’s and Cape Cod Package Store, and Cape Cod Beer.

Oysterfest: This first-time event features a white tent, beautiful view of Sandy Neck, delicious fare from Barnstable Tavern, the Mattakeese, the Dolphin, Osterville Fish Two and Naked Oyster, wines and beer, chamber music from the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra, and a chance to experience Barnstable oysters. Held at the Long Pasture Audubon, 345 Bone Hill Road, on Sept. 21 from 3 to 6 p.m. Tickets ($100) can be purchased through www.barnstableoysterfest.org or 508-362-2173. All proceeds benefit Barnstable Land Trust, Long Pasture Audubon and the Barnstable Civic Association.

Top priorities for me will include the continuation of new 6A sidewalks, the application for the Cultural District Designation for Barnstable Village, continued digitalization of Sandy Neck Colony records, replanting of 6A trees, drainage study from Cummaquid Heights to Maraspin Creek, sand management plan for Barnstable Harbor and my daughter’s November wedding!

Who says there is nothing to do on the Cape after Labor Day?!!

Thank you for allowing me the honor of being your town councilor. If you would like to join my newsletter, contact me at acanedy@comcast.net.

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